Microsoft Word Strikethrough Shortcut

Striking through text in Microsoft Word is a fast and simple way to show deletions, edits, or emphasize changes—and yes, there’s a dedicated Microsoft Word strikethrough shortcut for that! This formatting tool is especially useful when collaborating on documents or making notes, and it works smoothly on Windows, macOS, and even Ubuntu (depending on your setup). In this guide, we’ll walk you through the easiest ways to apply strikethrough formatting using keyboard shortcuts, mouse methods, and tips for speedier editing across all platforms.

What Is Strikethrough Formatting in Word?

Strikethrough formatting places a horizontal line through your selected text, signaling that the content is outdated, removed, or suggested for deletion—without actually removing it. It’s often used during proofreading, editing drafts, or creating lists with checked-off items. Microsoft Word makes it incredibly easy to apply this format either via toolbar or with handy keyboard shortcuts.

Strikethrough Shortcut in Word on Windows

For Windows users, the keyboard shortcut is:

Shortcut: Ctrl + D → Opens the Font dialog box
Then press Alt + K to activate Strikethrough, followed by Enter

Alternatively, if you want a faster method and your keyboard supports custom shortcuts:

Custom Shortcut: Press Ctrl + 5 in some Word configurations to apply strikethrough directly. (Note: This may vary depending on settings.)

You can also use the Strikethrough button in the “Home” tab on the ribbon—it’s the abc with a line through it.

Strikethrough Shortcut on macOS

On macOS, the process is slightly different but still efficient:

Shortcut: Command + Shift + X

This shortcut applies or removes strikethrough to the selected text instantly. It works in most Microsoft Word versions on macOS, including Word for Office 365 and Word 2021.

How to Use Strikethrough in Word on Ubuntu

On Ubuntu, Microsoft Word is usually accessed through:

Wine or PlayOnLinux (for running the Windows version)
Or using LibreOffice Writer as an alternative.

If you’re using Microsoft Word through Wine:

Use the Windows shortcut: Ctrl + D, then Alt + K, and press Enter.

If you’re using LibreOffice Writer:

Shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + X — This applies the strikethrough directly.

LibreOffice mirrors many of Word’s formatting shortcuts, making Ubuntu users feel right at home.

Using the Ribbon for Strikethrough (All Systems)

Prefer using your mouse? Here’s how:

Select the text you want to strikethrough.
Go to the Home tab.
Click the Strikethrough button (abc with a line).

This method works consistently across Windows, macOS, and even in web versions of Word.

Why Use Strikethrough Formatting?

Editing documents without losing original text.
To-do lists that show completed items.
Version control during content creation.
Collaborating with others while retaining clarity.

Quick Reference Table – Strikethrough Shortcuts

Platform	Shortcut	Method
Windows	Ctrl + D → Alt + K → Enter	Font Dialog + Keyboard Nav
macOS	Command + Shift + X	Direct Shortcut
Ubuntu (LibreOffice)	Ctrl + Shift + X	Works natively in LibreOffice
Ubuntu (via Wine)	Ctrl + D → Alt + K	Same as Windows in most cases

Bonus Tip: Double Strikethrough in Word (Windows Only)

Want to go a step further? Word also allows Double Strikethrough:

Use Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog.
Check Double Strikethrough and press Enter.

This feature isn’t available as a shortcut by default, but you can assign one manually via Word’s Customize Ribbon options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assign a custom strikethrough shortcut in Word?
Yes! Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon > Keyboard Shortcuts, and assign a new key combo for strikethrough.

Why doesn’t the shortcut work on my Word version?
It may be a version issue. Try updating Microsoft Word or use the Ribbon button.

Is strikethrough available in Word Online?
Yes, but only via the toolbar—not keyboard shortcuts.

How do I remove strikethrough formatting?
Just apply the shortcut again (toggle behavior) or deselect it from the Font menu.

Can I use strikethrough in Google Docs too?
Yes! Shortcut: Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or Command + Shift + X on Mac.

Conclusion

Mastering the Microsoft Word strikethrough shortcut on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu is a small skill that delivers big productivity gains. Whether you’re revising an essay, managing tasks, or proofreading a document, the ability to quickly strike through content helps streamline your work. Start using these shortcuts today—and spend less time clicking, more time creating!

Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts

If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.

https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/

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